STATEMENT OF MAYOR MICHAEL R. BLOOMBERG ON PASSING OF DR. ROBERT BUTLER, FOUNDING PRESIDENT OF THE NATIONAL INSTITUTE ON AGING AND THE INTERNATIONAL LONGEVITY CENTER IN NEW YORK

"Dr. Robert Butler's groundbreaking work in the field of
aging changed how the nation and the world perceive older adults. Coining
the term 'ageism' in l968 to describe prejudice against older people, he sought
to dispel the myth that older adults are destined to become frail, weak and
disabled as they age. His advocacy and writings profoundly influenced
every sphere of aging policy and programs, from the creation of an aging network
to services for caregivers. During recent years, Dr. Butler provided
instrumental leadership and guidance to New York City's Age Friendly Initiative,
a comprehensive municipal plan recognized just this past week by the World
Health Organization, which is seeking to create Age Friendly Cities around the
world. His passing is deeply mourned but he leaves a lasting
legacy."